Macular Degeneration – Part 2

Last week, we discussed the most common cause of blindness in people over age 50, macular degeneration that affects millions of Americans to varying degrees.

This week, we will explore the natural nutrients to help prevent and improve macular degeneration. Selenium, a trace mineral may help prevent the two most common causes of impaired vision and blindness in older Americans--cataracts and macular degeneration--by providing antioxidant actions that fight free radicals. It's these free radicals, after all, that often damage the eye's lens (the site of cataracts) and the macula at the center of the eye's retina (the site of macular degeneration).       

N-acetyl-Cysteine is an amino acid with potent antioxidant activity. The body will take this nutrient and convert it into a more powerful antioxidant known as Glutathione. NAC is found in high concentrations in the lens and the macula of the eye, which reduces damage from free radicals. NAC is a significant factor in such degenerative conditions as cancer and heart disease. This nutrient is one of the main ingredients found in the Ocu20/20 supplement from Nutritional Living. Of course, factors other than oxidative damage, such as life style factors and genetic susceptibility, play strong roles in disease development as well. The hope is that by reducing susceptibility to free radical damage, a person may further lower susceptibility to a variety of chronic medical conditions.

One side note, a contributing factor to the development of cataracts is the accumulation of the sugar sorbitol in the eye's lens. Studies show that the flavonoids inhibit this buildup. Grape seed extract, one such flavonoid, also helps combat cataracts and prevent macular degeneration because it improves blood circulation in the eye. Sugar consumption is a leading culprit to age-related eye problems. It should be noted to avoid the use of artificial sweeteners as they can damage the optic nerve and the lens of the eye.

One of the new 21st century nutrients called Astaxanthin is vital for those with macular degeneration as it is four times more effective than Lutein. This antioxidant comes from the red coloring of crabs, salmon and lobster. Many of my clients have had much more success in the area of macular degeneration using Astaxanthin than those taking Lutein. A recent study with rats indicates that Astaxanthin is effective at ameliorating retinal injury, and that it is also effective at protecting photoreceptors from degeneration. The results of this study suggest that Astaxanthin could be useful for prevention and treatment of neuronal damage associated with age-related macular degeneration.

In one’s lifestyle, avoid the overuse of refined sugar and wear sunglasses when venturing outside. These two simple measures will help to reduce age-related eye damage in your future. Be blessed and be healthy!

Ward W. Bond, Ph.D.

*Note: These statements have not been evaluated by the U.S. Federal Drug Administration ("FDA"). These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

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